Advantages and Disadvantages of Biodegradable Plastics
What is biodegradable plastic?
Biodegradable plastic bags are made from all-natural plant-based raw materials that enable the natural decomposition process which is achieved when the bacteria and fungi present in the surrounding environment naturally metabolizes the plastics and helps to further breakdown the structure of a biodegradable plastic. The end result of which is less harmful to the environment as compared to regular plastic bags. Take a look at some of the advantages and disadvantages of biodegradable plastic bags.
Advantages of Biodegradable Plastics
1. Reduction in Carbon Emission
One of the main advantages of using biodegradable polymers to make plastic bags is the significant reduction in the carbon emissions that happen during the manufacturing process as compared to that of regular plastic. Not just that, since the materials used to create biodegradable plastics are plant based, minimal carbon is emitted during the composting process.
2. Lesser Energy Consumption
While the initial investment might be slightly higher, in the long run biodegradable plastics require lesser amounts of energy and require fossil fuels to be reprocessed in order to create polymers. What’s more – lesser the energy requirements, lesser the pollution and environmental impact.
3. Eco-Friendly Disposable Solution
Biodegradable plastics require composting or recycling to ensure proper breakdown of the plastic pieces to enable the natural composting process. The requirement to properly dispose/process biodegradable plastic products automatically reduces the amount of waste that would otherwise be sent to landfills.
4. Recyclable Material
Apart from taking a significantly lesser time to breakdown as compared to regular plastic, biodegradable plastic can also be further recycled to create more plastic by products. The use of plant based oils to make biodegradable plastics also ensure its integrity (they contain no chemicals or toxins compared to other types of plastics).
Disadvantages of Biodegradable Plastics
While biodegradable plastics have numerous advantages, they do have some drawbacks as well. As mentioned earlier, biodegradable plastics need specific conditions to decompose, meaning the natural breakdown of this plastic will not occur if it is sent to the landfill along with other waste. A special composting system is required to ensure proper recycling/processing of biodegradable plastic bags. The other drawback to biodegradable plastics is that if they aren’t disposed properly and mix with regular plastics, they become contaminated and cannot be used anymore.
But, in spite of the minimal drawbacks of biodegradable plastic, it is still becoming a popular alternative to regular plastic, especially due to the growing awareness for environmental safety. Plus, the advantages of biodegradable plastics totally outweigh the disadvantages making it a better choice as compared to plastic polymers that have been used traditionally.
If you are looking for more information on the production of biodegradable plastics, the advantages and disadvantages of biodegradable plastic or the costs associated to its production and processing, contact XL Plastics on +91 265 2830155 and book a consultation with our team of experts right away!!